China Launches Two Rockets to Kick Off 2026 Space Mission Schedule Featuring Lunar and Manned Missions
China has initiated its 2026 space mission schedule with the successful launch of two rockets, the Long March 6A and Long March 8A, which deployed a remote-sensing satellite and a group of low-orbit satellites, respectively. The upcoming mission slate includes the Chang'e 7 lunar mission and two manned missions, potentially featuring a Pakistani astronaut, aimed at the Tiangong space station. These launches underscore China's expanding capabilities in space exploration and satellite technology.
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China commenced its 2026 space mission schedule with two launches on Tuesday. The Long March 6A rocket launched at 10:16 pm from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, deploying the Yaogan 50A remote-sensing satellite for land resource surveys and disaster mitigation.
This marks the 624th flight of the Long March rocket fleet. At 11:25 pm, the Long March 8A lifted off from the Hainan International Commercial Aerospace Launch Center, deploying the 18th group of low-orbit satellites for China's satellite internet network, which now operates over 140 satellites.
China plans several launches before January's end, including the Chang'e 7 mission to the moon's south pole for surface surveys. Two manned missions, Shenzhou XXIII and XXIV, are scheduled, with a possibility of a Pakistani astronaut participating in a flight to the Tiangong space station.
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